QantasLink Melbourne to Sunshine Coast

QantasLink Melbourne to Sunshine Coast

Off the back of the successful Sydney services launched last year, QantasLink will commence seasonal direct flights between Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast.

Over the upcoming peak summer holiday period, QantasLink will operate four return flights per week between Melbourne and the Sunshine Coast from December 16, 2016 to January 21, 2017 on its two class Boeing 717 aircraft.

This adds to QantasLink’s current schedule of six return flights from Sydney, providing 1320 seats to and from the region every week, the airline will further increase flights with an additional return service on Saturday and Sunday from October 30.

The attraction of the Sunshine Coast for Victorians was highlighted graphically at the Sunshine Coast Airport launch, with MCY enjoying balmy 21C temperatures at 10.30am in the morning, while MEL was still struggling to pass 10C.

QantasLink Chief Executive Officer John Gissing said the seasonal flights from Melbourne and expanded weekend schedule from Sydney would meet increased demand and were part of the airline’s commitment to supporting local tourism.

“We’re pleased to offer our customers in Victoria direct flights to the Sunshine Coast this summer as it’s proved to be a popular destination for Australians looking to holiday close to home,” Gissing said.

Gissing added that they had seen consistently high passenger numbers on the Sydney to Sunshine Coast services, which prompted the introduction of the seasonal flights.

Visit Sunshine Coast acting CEO Simon Latchford applauded the decision by Qantas, saying the move is a huge win for travellers and the Sunshine Coast tourism industry.

“Today’s announcement highlights Qantas’ strong commitment to the Sunshine Coast and provides more choice for visitors during the peak summer holiday period,” Latchford said.

“What makes the Sunshine Coast so attractive for Victorians is that we offer a diversity of attractions that extend way beyond our beaches. Our rich food culture, the Hinterland villages, our outstanding spas and wellness centres and a record events calendar means that even for visitors who know the Sunshine Coast, there’s plenty more to discover with each new trip.”

The seasonal Melbourne-Sunshine Coast services will commence from December 16, 2016 through to January 21, 2017 return flights scheduled at various times operating on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday each week.

Tickets for Melbourne – Sunshine Coast services will go on sale August 2, 2016.

The additional Sydney-Sunshine Coast Services will commence from October 30.

Saturday:       Sydney-Sunshine Coast QF 1580 Dep: 9.40; Arr: 10.15am

Sunshine Coast-Sydney QF1581 Dep: 11am; Arr: 1.40pm

Sunday:          Sydney-Sunshine Coast QF 1580 Dep: 3.40pm; Arr: 4.15pm

Sunshine Coast-Sydney QF1581 Dep: 5pm; Arr: 7.40pm

Qantas Melb MCY services announced - SC Airport’s Peter Pallot with Qantas Regional Manager Qld Elsa D’Alessio, and VSC’s Simon Latchford

 

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